Press Release

For Immediate Release

Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi — February 28 to March 6, 2026 — The International Sea Turtle Society (ISTS) will host its 44th ISTS Symposium in Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi, marking the first time this premier global event has ever been held in Hawaiʻi or the Pacific Islands.

The symposium is expected to draw close to 1,000 participants from more than 80 countries, including scientists, students, conservation practitioners, educators, policy makers, and community members. Attendees will share the latest research, explore innovative conservation strategies, and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing sea turtle populations worldwide.

“Bringing the symposium to Hawaiʻi and the Pacific Islands is historic,” said Alexander Gaos, President of ISTS, kamaʻāina resident of Oʻahu, and lead organizer of the 2026 event. “The islands are at the heart of the Pacific, home to honu and honuʻea, and a place where cultural heritage, ocean stewardship, and science come together. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for global experts and local communities to connect.”

Highlights of the week-long program will include the Pacific Island Voices Plenary Session, which will center the perspectives and experiences of Pacific Island communities in sea turtle conservation. Additional programming includes keynote talks from leading global experts, concurrent technical sessions, regional meetings, workshops, and a vibrant poster session and exhibitor hall. The always-popular Video Night, showcasing short films from around the world on sea turtles and marine conservation, will also be held and will be open to the public for a small fee.

The symposium underscores Hawaiʻi’s unique role as a crossroads for conservation. By hosting the 44th ISTS Symposium, Hawaiʻi will serve as a platform for international collaboration while honoring local knowledge and traditions tied to the islands’ cherished sea turtles.

Event Details:
• Dates: February 28 – March 6, 2026
• Location: Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi
• Host: International Sea Turtle Society (ISTS)
• Website: www.ists-symposium44.org

For media inquiries, please contact:
Alexander Gaos
President, International Sea Turtle Society
Telephone: 808.979.4031
Email: ISTS_Symposium44@internationalseaturtlesociety.org